A chara, - Newton Emerson's satirical attempt to trivialise the achievements of the Cuban revolution fire well wide of the mark (Newton's Optic, August 10th).
In addition to free and easy access to one of the best healthcare systems in the world, Cuba guarantees its citizens free housing, free utilities, free food, and a guarantee of employment after completing free primary, secondary and third-level education.
It has also managed to provide free healthcare and health expertise to millions of people worldwide, most recently to earthquake victims in Pakistan.
While several aspects of the Cuban state leave room for improvement, its unique dedication to improving the lives of its own citizens, and citizens of other countries, deserves a little more respect. - Is mise,
SUZIE MURRAY, Ballybough, Dublin 3.